The internet exploded early this morning with a joint statement released on Facebook by Lee Hsien Yang and Lee Wei Ling - siblings of Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

In the news release, they stated that they were "disturbed by the character, conduct, motives and leadership of their brother, Lee Hsien Loong, and the role of his wife, Ho Ching." They had felt "deeply troubled" by the pursuit of personal agenda by Lee Hsien Loong over the preservation of Lee Kuan Yew's old estate at 38 Oxley Road. It was Lee Kuan Yew's wish, as stated in his will, that the house be demolished upon his passing.

Both Lee Wei Ling and Lee Hsien Yang are the executors and trustees of Lee Kuan Yew’s estate; Lee Hsien Loong was removed in 2011.

Lee Hsien Yang also said that he had felt compelled to leave the country. Both Lee Wei Ling and Lee Hsien Yang "fear the use of the organs of state against [them] and Hsien Yang’s wife, Suet Fern.”

“We are very sad that we have been pushed to this. We feel hugely uncomfortable and closely monitored in our own country. We do not trust Hsien Loong as a brother or as a leader. We have lost confidence in him,” said the siblings.

Lee Hsien Loong responded with a short Facebook post a few hours later. He denied the allegations and said he was "deeply saddened" by them. The matter will be "considered" further when he returns from his holiday this weekend.

Author

Kareyst Lin – Senior Writer

Kareyst has experience in writing about B2B technology for Computerworld Singapore, MIS Asia and CIO Asia; and on government technology for GCIO Asia. Her pet areas are artificial intelligence, Internet of Things and smart cities - these are fueled by her obsession with sci-fi movies and philosophy of mind. An active Yoga practioner and cat lover, with a background in Indian philosophy, subaltern and diaspora studies.

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